Definition of 'Pearl' on CIBJO Agenda

(IDEX Online News) – What does a consumer expects to see when the object put in their hand is called "pearl"? Is it by definition a natural pearl or something broader, and therefore requires a more specific terminology?

This issue is at the center of a debate in the pearl industry and will be further debated at the upcoming CIBJO conference later this month.

An ISO standard for pearls does not exist and therefore many consider the CIBJO Pearl Book the industry standard for pearl nomenclature.

The two schools of thought pit natural against a broader view. The traditional CIBJO position that requires that if the unqualified word “pearl” is used then the item being referred to can only be a natural pearl.

The other view is that the use of the word “pearl” by the public has changed to have a generic use. Therefore, the CIBJO rule should be changed in favor of being more specific about the origin of the pearl, by stating clearly “natural pearl,” “cultured pearl” or an “imitation of pearl.”

On the table is a quest to ensure that the CIBJO Pearl Book properly reflects the views of the entire industry, while at the same time living up to and indeed enhancing the required levels of ethics, integrity and compliance expected of an organization that is representative of the worldwide Pearl Community.

After broadening input on the topic to include key industry players that normally do not attend CIBJO congresses, the CIBJO Pearl Commission will attempt to reach a final definition at the CIBJO Congress later this month.